Gentleman Creation Officer and Managing Director of Socked.co.uk Mark Hall said: "Sending socks to the chipmunks was the very least we could do to make sure that our furry friends are kept warm this winter.

"We pride ourselves not only in our high quality sock subscription service, but also on our etiquette tips for gentlemen.

"And high up on the list is the need to treat animals with as much care and respect as you would your fellow man."

Longleat keeper Darren Beasley added: "We had a good response from local people but we weren't quite prepared for the huge number of socks from Socked.co.uk.

"There are hundreds, and we're looking at making further use of them around the safari park."